EMERGENCY services sprang into action when a horse became stuck in a slurry pit in a village near Wellington two days before Christmas.

The incident on a farm in Holcombe Rogus started shortly before 2 pm on Tuesday afternoon (December 23).

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue mobilised fire crews from three stations to attend the scene.

Wellington firefighters joined colleagues with specialist equipment from Bridgwater and from Clyst St George, in Devon.

The crews worked for several hours through the afternoon using a telehandler and strops to lift the trapped horse free of the slurry.

The firefighters were assisted during the operation by a veterinary surgeon to ensure the animal’s welfare, and the rescued horse was then left in care of its owner.